John Mbugua
International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association - National Representative
for Kenya

Abstract

The above programme started in 1984 with a goal of introducing sustainable
affordable, replicable and acceptable water supply projects within 6'1/2 administrative
districts which are Nakuru, Nyandarua, Narok, Baringo, Samburu, Kericho and part
of Laikipia. During this period of 6 years a number of target groups have been
identified and mobilized. To date the programme has over 150 active groups made
up of 90% women who are also responsible for their group management. Total number
of tanks constructed are over 3,0.00 and sizes:: vary from 500 gallons capacity
to 30,000 gallons. This. means over 3`0,000 people and hundreds of cattle have
safe water supplies at their homes'. Challenges have been in areas of research,
documentation, quality monitoring and promotion of rainwater catchment system
in other areas other than domestic, such as agriculture. The programme with assistance
from UNICEF hosted first IRCSA workshop which attracted over 55 participants from
over 20 organization including 4 ministries. There were also participants from
Botswana and Tanzania.